November 22, 2023 A Tradition of Giving Buca Di Beppo partners with Friends of the Children-Los Angeles for 4th Annual Friendsgiving Meal Distribution. As the holiday season approaches, many of us are filled with a sense of gratitude and the desire to give back to our communities. It is in this spirit of giving that Buca Di Beppo, a beloved Italian restaurant chain, joined hands with Friends of the Children-Los Angeles for the fourth consecutive year to support families in need. On Friday, November 18th, the partnership provided hearty meals to 51 deserving households in Antelope Valley, California. A Heartwarming Act of Service For four years running, Buca Di Beppo has been an integral part of Friends of the Children-Los Angeles' annual Friendsgiving meal distribution event. This heartwarming tradition has become a beacon of excitement for the residents of Antelope Valley, a region that faces unique challenges, particularly when it comes to access to quality food. As a food desert, Antelope Valley struggles with limited access to fresh and nutritious food, exacerbated by a lack of transportation infrastructure. The Menu: More Than Just Food Youth and families from the Antelope Valley service region visited the Friends of the Children-Los Angeles office in Lancaster, CA on November 18th to pick up their meals. This gathering provided an opportunity for these families to socialize with one another, share stories, and strengthen their sense of community. Moreover, it allowed them to touch base with their mentors from Friends of the Children-Los Angeles before the holiday break. The organization's mentorship programs play a crucial role in the lives of many children and families, offering support, guidance, and a sense of belonging. To support this much-anticipated holiday tradition, Buca Di Beppo generously donated family meals that included cookies, bread, penne pasta, Caesar salad, and chicken parmesan. As a result of Buca Di Beppo's support, Friends of the Children-Los Angeles fed 269 individuals from their program. "I appreciate this a lot, you know." shared a caregiver who attended the event. "Stopping by to collect this meal helps ensure that my family is fed well and leaves my dinner table satisfied tonight. Because the portions are generous, and the flavors are good." Action Into Impact The impact of Buca Di Beppo's support for Friends of the Children-Los Angeles in Antelope Valley extends far beyond a single meal. The average household size for the families served in this region is five people, and this event ensures that each of them can sit down to a warm and hearty meal, strengthening the bonds of family during the holiday season. "Buca Di Beppo's unwavering commitment to this event is truly remarkable." shared Joaquin Canizales, Antelope Valley Program Director. "Their support goes beyond just providing food. It's a day filled with warmth, compassion, and camaraderie." A Community United As we approach Thanksgiving and the holiday season, we are reminded once again of how grateful we are for our partnership with Buca Di Beppo. The company's continued commitment to this annual event exemplifies the true spirit of giving and compassion. It's a reminder that even in challenging times, when food deserts and transportation issues loom large, there are individuals and organizations willing to step up and make a difference by finding ways to give back to their communities.